For Coach Dedreck Carr, this isn’t just a promotion, it’s a prayer answered. A Sterling High School alum, Carr’s journey from wide receivers coach to head of the program he once played for is more than a football story; it’s a full-circle moment years in the making. After the departure of former head coach Gary Joseph, who stepped down to care for his aging parents, Carr now steps into the role he’s dreamed about since walking Sterling’s halls as a student. With last season’s 7–4 record behind them, a quarterback vacancy ahead and a community hungry for revival, Carr is determined to make Sterling football great again.
“It’s more than just a coaching job,” said Carr. “It’s preserving the traditions, elevating the program and mentoring the next generation of student-athletes with the same pride and commitment I had when I wore the jersey.”
Carr began dreaming of this opportunity long before he was a coach, back when he was still a player.
“I first started dreaming of leading this program when I was on the team myself,” said Carr. “As a teenager, I felt a deep pride in representing my school and admired the impact our coaches had not just on the field, but in our lives.”
That pride was rooted in Sterling’s core values.
“C.H.A.M.P.S. was embedded in me and still plays a major part in my life right now,” said Carr. “Character, Heart, Attitude, Motivation, Pride, Sacrifice.”
As Sterling’s new head coach, Carr’s vision is ambitious: He wants the Raiders to compete for a state title within three to five years while also growing the program’s participation numbers.
“The ultimate goal is to increase participation from about 90 kids to more than 150,” said Carr. “My desire is for my kids to have the chance to play at the next level, no matter the division. I want to mentor my student-athletes, teach them life lessons and make sure they’re on track to become productive citizens.”
Sterling Athletic Director Burl Jones said Carr’s leadership made him stand out among candidates.
“Coach Carr had a blend of leadership and impact that went beyond X’s and O’s,” said Jones. “He had a track record of elevating teams from challenging seasons to competitive contenders, which gave me confidence we could build a winning culture quickly. He connects with players as people, not just athletes.”
Jones added that Carr’s deep roots in the community sealed the decision.
“It’s more than just a coaching job. It’s preserving the traditions, elevating the program and mentoring the next generation of student-athletes with the same pride and commitment I had when I wore the jersey.”
Coach Dedreck Carr
“He played in the same little leagues, rode his bike down MLK and grew up watching guys like me play for Sterling,” said Jones. “We didn’t just hire a coach who could draw up plays; we hired someone who will build a sustainable culture of excellence, develop players as people and align the program with the community’s values. Coach Carr will lead Sterling to a State Championship in the very near future.”
With a new coach comes a new identity. Carr plans to create a more dynamic, adaptable offense.
“Using motions and multiple formations with tempo, we hope to exploit opponents’ weaknesses quickly,” said Carr. “Defensively, we plan to pressure and control while creating discomfort.”
Carr’s experience as a pass game coordinator gives him confidence in adapting game plans on the fly. But with quarterback Elijah Jackson graduating last season, the Raiders are searching for their next leader under center.
“We have three candidates capable of leading the team,” said Carr. “They all command the huddle, stay poised under pressure, read defenses well and have high football IQ.”
Carr knows his team must overcome challenges like chemistry, injuries and expectations.
“Ensuring that all the pieces mesh together is vital,” said Carr. “Staying healthy and being ready with backups is always tough. And managing expectations, whether you’re seen as a contender or underdog, can make or break a season.”
This season will be Dewon Davis’s first as offensive coordinator after three years on staff. He said Carr has prepared him well for the role.
“Coach Carr and I have worked closely together for the past three seasons,” said Davis. “We’ve consistently collaborated on the playbook, which makes it easy to build a system our players can execute at a high level.”
Carr is setting a tone of accountability and leadership, emphasizing purposeful drills and competitive practice environments.
“The offseason is the foundation for success,” said Carr. “It’s not just about strength training or conditioning it’s about skill development and mental toughness. We focused on details during film sessions and pushed players to understand every nuance of the game.”
Players have noticed the difference.
“The biggest change is how involved he is with both us and our families,” said Caleb Green, a current offensive player. “He makes sure we’re taken care of, gear, transportation, whatever we need. He truly cares beyond just football.”
Carr said he’s building a coaching staff based on loyalty, work ethic and shared vision.
“Our staff understands the cultural expectations and the new coaches have brought fresh perspectives and innovation,” said Carr.
Assistant coach Alonte Thomas said Carr’s leadership has influenced his approach.
“With Coach Carr being a successful alum, he inspires me to do more for the program and the community,” said Thomas.
Carr wants the program to be about more than wins and losses. He’s focused on rallying the community through partnerships, outreach and shared pride.
“At Sterling High, you’re more than just a player, you’re part of a legacy,” said Carr. “Here, you represent your community, your school and your future. Why leave when everything you need is already right here?”
Local youth coach Lano Hampton, president of the Southeast Raiders Youth Football and Cheer Program, said Carr’s hiring was big news.
“I was excited to hear Coach Carr was named head coach,” said Hampton. “He’s been active in the community for years and I know he’ll bring the same energy to Sterling. I hope to see more participation, playoff runs and continued involvement with younger athletes.”
